Search Results: NaturallyCurly

The 1-Product Wash and Go

Ariona loves her curly hair and has a lot of it!  She wants defined, frizz-free curls right from the shower, and doesn’t want to apply a million products to get it that way. In fact, for this look she only uses one hair product. If you’re picturing your overflowing counter top, full of curl creams, gels, deep conditioners and oils, just imagine clearing all of that off and narrowing it down to one. Just one.

The Routine

Step 1

The making of a good hair day begins in the shower. With wet hair, apply DevaCurl One Condition in sections.

Step 2

Then, twist the curls around fingers to define and form the curls’ shape.

Step 3

Once all the curls are completed, dry with the DevaFuser in sections.

Step 4

Once completely dry, shake out the curls.

The finished look

The result is defined, no-frizz, no-fuss curls—and it only took one product. Watch the full video tutorial here

[prodmod]

This post is sponsored by DevaCurl.

Yunno How Your Curls Look SO Good at the Beach? Get That Look

You know how your hair looks just after you go swimming in the ocean? Your curls clump together with just the right amount of hold that looks sexy and effortless, and literally requires no product. But as you may have discovered by now, it can be hard to replicate that look without a curling iron… or a plane ticket.

Here’s how to get volume and texture of saltwater waves without the fuss or fake look of a curling iron.

Sexy Saltwater Waves

Step 1
On clean, wet hair, release as much water as possible with a microfiber towel like the DevaTowel

Step 2
Apply DevaCurl Frizz-Free Volumizing Foam to hands, rub together, and add just to roots

Step 3
Apply DevaCurl Styling Cream to hands and gently glide through hair, starting at the roots and working through mid-lengths and ends, and boost your hair upwards
Step 4
Once dry, part your hair in 4 quadrants putting each section into a ponytail.  Then divide the ponytail into 3 curls, and secure with DevaClips.

Step 5
To dry, use the DevaFuser Dryer, by putting the unique DevaFuser hand through the curls to set. Once completely dry, removes clips and bands from the hair, flip your head over, shake it out at the root and use the DevaCurl Spray Gel, working through the hair for texture and volume. For the final touch, twist the front piece of hair to create height, and pull back with pins.

Final look

The final look is a cool, beachy texture, with a twist!

Watch the Video

DevaCurl filmed a full video tutorial, click here to watch it!

Giveaway

We are giving away DevaCurl products to 8 lucky winners if you comment below.

Eight winners will be randomly selected on Monday, February 8.

This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only, as per our Terms and Conditions.

*Please make sure you have liked us on Facebook, so that when we can notify you if you’ve won.

[prodmod]

This article is sponsored by DevaCurl.

Get Mini Marley’s Curly Fro with a Twist

New guru Mini Marley has only been on YouTube for one year, but in that short time we’ve watched her subscribers shoot up over one hundred thousand in a matter of months, and we couldn’t be happier for her! When we saw her recent fro tutorial with a twist, we could totally relate to the desire for a fun new take on your go-to wash and go or twist out – that won’t take up your whole morning. Sometimes it’s hard to be your most creative self at 7am, so for those moments we recommend you try this hairstyle.

What you need

Directions

  1. If you’re working with an old flat twist out or wash and go, start by refreshing your curls with a shine product or finisher. Apply this in sections, massaging it into the scalp and smoothing from roots to ends. 
  2. Tie hair back, leaving the front “bang” section of hair loose.
  3. Apply your edge control product to your edges, combing it down with a toothbrush.
  4. Take a 1″ section of hair above the left ear and divide it into two, then begin flat twisting towards the face, up and over in the direction of the right ear. Don’t worry about making this too tight, if it’s loose it will look fuller.
  5. Secure the twist near the right ear with bobby pins.
  6. Let the rest of the hair down and fluff it out with your fingers.

Watch the Video

[prodmod]

This post is sponsored by Carol’s Daughter.

MahoganyCurls Used SheaMoisture Blow Out Cream, and These are the Results

According to our latest TextureTrends Consumer Insights report, over 60% of all curly girls straighten their hair at least some of the time. We love natural curls and want them to bounce back, so if you’re going to use heat then you need to use heat protection 100% of the time.

Over 60% of all curly girls straighten their hair at least some of the time

SheaMoisture, which has become known for its innovative collections, just launched a new product designed to provide curly and coily girls with the option of easily getting a sleeker, straighter look. SheaMoisture’s Tahitian Noni & Monoi Smooth & Repair Blow Out Cream is now available at Target to provide women with an easier, faster way to blow out their hair.

MahoganyCurls recently used the Blow Out Cream  and shared the results on Instagram, saying “(Not sure if it’s available in stores yet…it’s amazing though!!!”> So serious! Made my blow out super easy to do. Then I lightly flat ironed my hair on low heat (only took 20 minutes”> and finished with a curling wand. Result – hair with a ton of body.” Keep an eye out for the blow out video on her channel later this month.

Using community input, the nourishing cream was developed to reduce friction for easier brush glide during blow drying. It also protects against heat styling and smoothes the cuticle layers of the hair to create sleek styles while reducing styling time.

Key ingredients include Tahitian Noni, which is rich in antioxidant Vitamin C to help maintain hair’s health and Monoi Oil, which provides reparative benefits that revive dry, damaged strands. It also contains peptides with antioxidant protection to help promote healthy growth and botanical extracts to strengthen and protect hair during heat styling and environmental stressors.

Tahitian Noni & Monoi Smooth & Repair Blow Out Cream joins Tahitian Noni & Monoi Smooth & Repair Conditioning Shampoo, Smooth & Repair Rinse-Out Conditioner, Smooth & Repair High Shine Glosser, Smooth & Repair Nourishing Hair Masque and Smooth & Repair Hair Scalp Weekly Therapy.

All SheaMoisture products are color-safe and cruelty-free, and do not contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, gluten, synthetic fragrance or artificial color.


This post is sponsored by SheaMoisture.

3 Ways to Retain Moisture this Winter

Moisture is an issue for curlies, coilies and wavies no matter the weather. Add to that the cold, drying winds of winter and a few sessions with a flat iron or at-home box color and you can find yourself in hair crisis mode in no time. Here are three ways to bring the moisture back whether your curls are dry, heat damaged, or chemically processed.

” src=”https://diana-cdn.naturallycurly.com/Articles/CD_3-ways-to-moisture-1.jpg”>

1. Dry, brittle coils

Evelyn struggles with breakage and moisture retention in the winter. She’s a low-maintenance natural who doesn’t typically do protective styles, so she needs an easy routine that’s going to amp up the moisture with little effort.

Products used: Olive Oil Infusion, Mirabelle Plum Shampoo, Conditioner & Leave-In Conditioner, Hair Milk Gel

2. Heat damaged curls

Nikki likes to straighten her hair every now and then for a change, but when she washes her curls she finds she’s left with frizz and frayed strands. To battle the double whammy of heat damage and cold weather damage, Nikki likes to pre-poo with conditioner to make sure that she will not lose any more moisture in the cleansing process.

Products used: Sacred Tiare Conditioner, Shampoo & Leave-In Conditioner, Black Vanilla Edge Smoother

3. Chemically processed waves

Cristina’s waves have been through the ringer this year. First she bleached them platinum blonde, then went purple, and has now returned to her natural dark color. The repeated chemical processes of bleaching and dyeing her hair has left Cristina’s waves dull and her curls limp. She needs the healing effects of an oil infusion pre-poo and a cleansing routine that won’t strip her color.

Products used: Olive Oil Infusion, Sacred Tiare Shampoo, Conditioner, Leave-In Conditioner, Black Vanilla Edge Smoother

[prodmod]

This article is sponsored by Carol’s Daughter.

Dove’s New Curly Campaign Speaks to Us!

Earlier this week, Dove premiered a video for their new Love Your Curls campaign. In the video, the major hair care brand focuses a spotlight on a handful of young girls with textured hair ranging from loose waves to tightly coiled curls.  Too often we dwell on a physical trait that we wish we could change about ourselves, and for these particular girls, it is their hair. In Dove’s heartfelt video we meet Camilla, Aisha, Carina, and Jewel, and Angelyce, ranging in age from 5 to 11, who all share one insecurity in common–their hair texture. When asked about their feelings toward their hair, each girl responded to the interviewer with palpable frustration and disappointment. 
According to Dove, only 4 out of 10 girls with curly hair actually love their hair. And they are 7 times more likely to love their curls if people around them do, too.

For 16 years TextureMedia and NaturallyCurly have spent tireless and ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between the often alienated curly hair community and the mainstream, and we count this video and its success as a major victory.   We’re thrilled to see this message becoming a force in mainstream media and conversations between women, not just within the curly community. Let’s celebrate our beauty, starting with our hair.

If the answer is yes, then you won’t want to skip this video. And be sure to show this to your curly kiddo as well.

Watch the Video

#LoveYourCurls Giveaway

We know so many of you can relate to the frustration of these girls – believe us, we’ve been there. We see your comments and read your questions and know you’re always on the hunt for products that will help you love your curls, so in celebration of this milestone we’re going to help you with your search.

We are giving away a mystery bundle of our editors’ top favorite products, simply comment below and tell us why you love your curls!

A winner will be randomly selected on Friday, January 30.

This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only, as per our Terms and Conditions.

*Please make sure you have liked us on Facebook, so that when we can notify you if you’ve won.

Get Sweet Max Hydration with Mirabelle Plum

Mirabelle plum, also known as the mirabelle prune, is a fruit primarily cultivated in the French region of Lorraine that, because of its rich, sweet flavors, are often found in deserts and spirits.  However, one brand has discovered the intense moisturizing power of the plums, and has created a moisture- and biotin-rich restorative hair line.

Hydrating deeply into the hair follicle as well as fortifying ingredients, like biotin and olive oil,  for healthy hair growth, the Carol’s Daughter Mirabelle Plum (Healthy Growth and Max Hydration”> line finds the right balance of moisture for all hair types but is perfect for pampering fine, weak, and very dry hair. From shampoos and conditioners to masks and oil treatments, Mirabelle Plum will instantly strengthen damaged, fragile, and frizzy hair. The line offers the best of both worlds, no matter that texture—hair growth and max hydration.

The Sulfate-Free Biotin Shampoo is the ultimate solution for weak hair, as biotin helps stimulate and fortify hair for stronger, healthier growth, and the luxurious blend of grapeseed oil and mirabelle plum oil intensely hydrates and conditions, offering maximum moisture for all hair types. Which should be followed by the Restoring Biotin Conditioner, a creamy conditioner restores moisture and promotes healthy hair growth, leaving hair softer, shinier, and easier to detangle. You can’t have a moisturizing hair line, without a leave-in, and the Leave-In Biotin Conditioner encourages healthy hair growth while moisturizing hair with this weightless, silicone-free conditioner, and it can be used on wet or dry hair to refresh your style.

Then there’s the Strengthening Hair Mask, which strengthens as it conditions with the power of biotin when it’s allowed to sit in hair about five to seven minutes once per week for best results. Or try the Hair Oil Treatment, a deeply hydrating treatment that prepares hair for non-stripping cleansing, restoring and softening follicles without weighing them down. Can be used as a hot oil treatment, or simply as a deep conditioner.

You deserve the best, and this collection will spoil you.

[prodmod]

This post is sponsored by Carol’s Daughter.

The New Plastic Surgery that Women Are Getting on their Hairlines

forehead curly hair

What is a forehead/hairline lift?

A forehead or hairline lift minimizes the creases that have developed over time across the forehead. The same procedure also helps to decrease the lines across the bridge of the nose, frown lines and repositions sagging eyebrows. The overall appearance after a forehead lift is usually that of a more rested face.

For those considering a forehead lift, finding the right doctor is first and foremost. Doctors will be certain to ensure that the procedure you’re requesting is realistic for your appearance.

…the method involves one continuous incision starting at ear level and then moving around the hairline. A well-done procedure will ensure no visible scarrin

For the most part, the method in which the lift is done involves one continuous incision starting at ear level and then moving around the hairline. A well-done procedure will ensure no visible scarring will appear at the hairline after the operation and healing process.

Other types of procedures can also be done. Your doctor can make more than one incision using an endoscope so the surgeon can view the procedure on a large screen as she works. Similar procedures to the hairline lift are a browpexy or a direct brow lift, which adjusts the brow position. Some of these procedures, can, at times, be combined with a facelift or other similar cosmetic procedures.

Are they safe?

As with any surgery, there is always some risk involved. Some of the side effects and possible complications that can occur are: prolonged swelling, small amount of hair loss around the incision, bleeding underneath the forehead (skin”>, injury to the nerve that raises the eyebrow and temporary numbness or itching of the forehead and hair.

Recovery from the forehead lift procedure takes time. Doctors stress the importance of patience through the healing process. Most surgeons recommend 2-3 days of cold compresses and elevating your head with a lot of rest. Sutures are typically removed about one week post-surgery and most clients have fully recovered after two weeks.

Considering getting a forehead/hairline lift?

If you are considering a forehead lift, do your research and educate yourself about well qualified board surgeons of cosmetology. When meeting with your doctor, be sure to have a list of questions and concerns as well.

This Lady Is Wearing The Most Weave… Ever. And 6 More Things We Talked About This Week
Because after all, we are the #1 online authority for all things textured hair…

Isis Brantley

Texas Court Rules In Favor Of Hair Braider Isis Brantley

After a grueling back and forth with the state and hair braider Isis Brantley, last week a federal judge declared that the set of laws that were preventing Brantley and other braiders from teaching students to braid hair for a living, were unconstitutional. In 1979, she opened up the first natural hair salon in Texas…In 1995, 7 law enforcement officers invaded her storefront to disclose it was illegal to braid in Texas for profit… Read the full post here
teacher braids childs hair
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FACEBOOK

Teacher Braids Student’s Natural Hair… Then Posts It On Her Facebook

There’s a picture (above”> floating around social media of a little girl who showed up to school after the holiday break with her hair looking ‘ridiculously tangled’ and full of ‘lint’… Read the original post here 

kate bosworth big chop
PHOTOS COURTESY OF INSTAGRAM

Kate Bosworth Becomes Member Of The “Wob” Gang

Celebrity hairstylist Harry Josh posted a side-by-side photo on his Instagram with the caption “OK people, I just cut literally a foot off a mystery actress! It will be revealed tonight on the red carpet!” Actress Kate Bosworth revealed her gorgeous wavy bob (AKA Wob”> to the world January 13th. Read the full article here

huge weave

This Lady Is Wearing The Most Weave… Ever 

KevOnStage recently posted a video reaction to this woman wearing the most weave, ever–at the beauty store purchasing 3 MORE bundles of weave. Read the original post here 

indian woman

Indian Weave Companies Are Finding The Most Success In Africa

According to Madame Noire, “Indian beauty firms, specifically human hair sellers, are racking up the big bucks in Africa…[it] is a prime market for Indian hair. Its dry hair market (the market for weaves, wigs, and extensions”> is currently estimated to be worth $6 billion a year and booming.” Read the full post here 

kordale and kaleb controversial picture
PHOTO COURTESY OF FACEBOOK

Nikon Gives Couple A Chance To Explain Their Controversial Viral Pic

We all remember this photo of partners/fathers Kordale and Kaleb taking care of their children’s hair. It was posted and reposted on social media sites thousands of times and then… caught the eye of billion-dollar Japanese imaging products brand Nikon. In this new campaign titled “We Are Generation Image” the two fathers reflect on the controversy of the photo, and what picture taking means to them. Read the full post here 

sabree braiding hair in killeen texas
PHOTO COURTESY OF KDH NEWS

Texas Woman Teaches Others How To Care For Their Natural Hair

In a world where natural hair education is scarce, Luvina Sabree offers free lessons for Killeen’s Happy 2 B Nappy Hair Group for those who want to manage their naturally textured hair. Read the full post here 

Should You Cut Mineral Oil Out of Your Life?

Remember when mineral oil was the only oil associated with beauty and skincare? However, for the last two or so years the beauty world has been all about oils—olive oil, jojoba oil, alma oil, coconut oil, lavender oil, argan oil, and the list literally goes on and on. We have learned in this time how beneficial the right oils can be for our skin, but with so many to choose from, what happened to the “mother” mineral oil that was around way before this oil craze?

For years mineral oil has been an extremely common ingredient in personal care products, from hair moisturizers to foundations to lip balms, with the most popular probably being baby oil, which is made entirely of mineral oil. For a while mineral oil was the ultimate moisturizing agent, but only to the extent that it keeps the area of skin that it is applied to moist. Mineral oil, a petroleum product, became popular as a skin care product because it forms a film over the skin that prevents the skin from contacting or absorbing anything in the environment. However, over recent years, there has been an increase in research into mineral oil alternatives, driven by the demand for products that are more environmentally friendly.

But before we go deeming mineral oil bad for you, it’s important to know crude oil (which mineral oil is derived from”> is as natural as any other earth-derived substance. When used on hair, mineral oil forms a film on the strand, which smoothes the cuticle and prevents water from penetrating or leaving the strand. Mineral oil can improve curl clumping and moisture retention, but these benefits only last until the oil is washed away, whereas other oils have lasting benefits for hair health. The problem is while most moisturizers include important nutrients that support the fragile and always aging skin and hair, mineral oil provides no nutrients whatsoever. It can cause product buildup on the hair unless a sulfate-shampoo is used, and actually smothers and seals off your skin, preventing it from breathing. This makes mineral oil not necessarily  “bad” for your hair and skin, but it isn’t  good either.

Should you cut the mineral oil out of your hair regimen?

According to NaturallyCurly’s Curl Chemist, Tonya McKay “is not one of those materials that must be avoided at all costs. It provides some pretty decent benefits, and I would not personally discard a potential product simply because it was on the ingredients list. It looks as if it is especially useful if you live in very dry or very damp climates or if you use chemical relaxers of any sort.” So while you may not need to avoid it, vegetable oils and even some synthetic polymer emollients can deliver the same level of performance while also improving the long-term health and vitality of your hair.

Should you cut mineral oil out of your skincare?

Considering your skin is the body’s largest organ, and it works together with the kidneys to rid the body of toxins, your skin needs to be able to breathe to perform these functions. The problem with mineral oil is that it lays on the skin like saran wrap, disrupting the skin’s natural immune barrier and inhibiting its ability to breathe and absorb the natural moisture factor, while clogging pores, trapping dirt, and causing pimples. Plus, mineral oil attracts needed moisture from cells deep inside your skin. This means that cell renewal is slowed, collagen breaks down, and the connective tissue is destroyed. Normal cell development is slowed down and the skin ages prematurely when skin cells are robbed of moisture.

While non-purified industrial mineral oil is comedogenic, cosmetic grade mineral oil isn’t, which means mineral oil may be aggravating for the face, mineral oil is generally ok for the rest of the body. But it is important to remember that  mineral oil doesn’t let anything in (oxygen”>, but it also doesn’t let anything out (toxins”>, so careful of how often and how much you use on the rest of your body.

What’s great is many large cosmetic companies are discontinuing their use of synthetic and petrochemical ingredients in personal care products. There are now botanical oil alternatives that keep moisture locked in, and make the skin and hair feel smooth and healthy. Carol’s Daughter’s Body & Bath Collections are packed with performance-driven ingredients, like vitamins and antioxidants, for truly healthier, softer skin. Experience our fan-favorite Almond Cookie Moisturizing Collection for yourself (Now new At Target!”>.

For ultimate moisturization on your face, try Carol’s Daughter’s Açai Hydrating Face Lotion (also available at Target”>, which contains a plethora of oils including baobab, jojoba, and manketti oils to minimize blemishes and wrinkles, and nurturing rose, chamomile and ylang-ylang oils to keep  skin perfectly balanced throughout the day. Oils, when massaged into the skin, act as a cleanser bind to surface impurities and allow them to be comfortably rinsed away leaving the skin clean, soft and hydrated.

Bottom line is mineral oil is safe, but not the best for your skin. Free your skin and stop smothering it with artificial mineral oil so your skin can breathe freely!


This post is sponsored by Carol’s Daughter.

4 No-Fuss Healthy Hair Tips For Guys

mens shaved hair

1. Get a frequent trim

My hairdresser cut about an inch off recently, even though I did not want that much cut off. It turns out skipping trims isn’t a good thing. Now, my hair is looking on fleek. If you’re looking to prevent damaged hair, getting a couple of centimeters trimmed (about 1 inch”> off every 6 weeks will help it grow.

2. Use lots of leave-in conditioner!

I use one every single night. In the morning it makes my hair much easier to work with. My curls separate and do whatever they want if I skip a leave-in. My curls are like, “hey, let’s be friends,” whenever I use one. Right now I use Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine on wet hair at night before bed. And with this bottle, a little goes a long way.

3. Use a heat protectant serum

Obviously this only applies if you use heat tools, but I use Pantene Heat Protection serum on wet hair along with my conditioner. Since I straighten it often, this is effective in protecting my hair from heat.

4. Use argan oil

I use this one by Hask, it’s argan oil from Morocco. I use a bit on my finger tips and run it through my hair for sleek, smooth hair–and I make sure my hair is dry while using it.

[prodmod]

Watch my video

Have any additional helpful tips on maintaining healthy hair? Feel free to leave a comment! And don’t forget to visit the Thomas in Action blog and subscribe to YouTube channel: Thomas In Action. Follow me on Instagram, too!

The Top 10 Anti-Resolutions: What NOT to Do in 2015

The year 2015 is here and many have already or are in the process of composing New Year’s Resolution lists. Saving money, eating healthier and exercising will no doubt make the lists. For the devoted curly community, haircare will

Instead of taking the predictable route of haircare resolutions, the following is a list of things not to do—don’ts—when it comes to haircare in the new year.

10. Don’t assume what works for someone else’s hair will work for your hair.

I know I’m guilty of spotting someone with beautiful natural hair, and jotting down the exact products the person used and didn’t achieve the same results. Experiment with products (preferably trial sizes”> to find out what your hair likes.

9. Don’t use excessive heat.

Hot styling tools damage your hair. They can cause dryness, frizz and breakage. Seek out styles that don’t require heat and air-dry or use a bonnet dryer whenever possible. If you do wear straight styles every once in a while, be sure to use low heat and heat styling protection products such as Carol’s Daughter’s Sacred Tiare Anti-Breakage & Anti-Frizz Styling Cream (available at Target stores”>.

8. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice.

You will find that fellow transitioners and natural hair wearers don’t mind sharing their hair stories and journeys. Join a natural hair community.

7. Don’t fall for so-called quick growth remedies/treatments.

On average, barring any health ailments, our hair grows one half an inch a month or 6 inches a year. Some of those so-called quick growth remedies can actually result in hair loss or shedding. Be patient.

6. Don’t sleep on cotton pillow cases or wear cotton or wool scarves.

These materials not only snag hair, but rob the hair and scalp of moisture. Also, during the winter months keep your hair/ends from rubbing against cotton/wool coats and scarves and avoid hats lined with cotton or wool. Opt for silk or satin.

5. Don’t use fine-tooth combs/brushes to detangle.

Always detangle using your hands or fingers first. Using these tools first will result in breakage while using your hands/fingers first will prevent breakage and result in length retention. Also don’t pull at hair knots, if you can not work a knot out with your fingers go ahead and use cutting shears to cut the knot off. For the best detangling experience, try Carol’s Daughter’s Khoret Amen Olive Oil Infusion Kit (now at Target”>.

4. Don’t forget to be gentle with new growth.

The line of demarcation (your relaxed/permed ends and natural new growth”> is very fragile. Always handle your hair gently like you would a silk garment.

3. Don’t hold back on your creativity when it comes to hairstyles.

Browse through hair magazines and/or hit the Internet for style ideas, YouTube, Fotki, etc…. Try our lastest styling must-haves: Hair Milk Alcohol-Free Gel and Black Vanilla Edge Smoother to keep curls, coils and waves moisturized and tamed (both now at Target”>.

2. Don’t overdo it with products.

Piling on products attracts dirt and debris and build-up on your hair and scalp, and actually causes your hair to become dry and brittle. Avoid products with non-soluble waxes, and silicones. Carol’s Daughter offers great silcone- and paraben-free moisturizing products.

1. Don’t be afraid to take the plunge and cut off those relaxed/permed ends.

Of course, never feel rushed or pressured into doing a “big chop” or cutting those last few inches of ends off. Consider the pros and cons of your decision. But, if you are absolutely ready to flaunt your natural tresses go for it.


This post is sponsored by Carol’s Daughter.

How to Revive Your 4-Day Old Hair – On 2 Curl Patterns

Have you been procrastinating? We all do it. Wash day can sometimes feel all too overwhelming and you put it off like hitting snooze on your alarm clock. But hit snooze one too many times and your hair will reward you with dry, undefined curls and coils with no shape or bounce. When NaturallyCurly editors Evelyn and Nikki skipped a few wash days their hair got a little… out of control. They have two different hair types so it took a few different products and techniques to bring them back to the Evelyn and Nikki we know and love, but you can watch how they transform an old ‘do into something fancy and new with the new Design Essentials Coconut and Monoi line.

Evelyn’s routine:
  1. Evelyn sprayed her hair with Coconut & Monoi Coconut Water Curl Refresher to make her fro more pliable and softened it up for styling
  2. Next she applied Coconut & Monoi Deep Moisture Milk Creme throughout her hair (starting with the back and sides”>, two strand twisting her hair in small sections
  3. Set the hair overnight
  4. Evelyn used Coconut & Monoi Intense Shine Oil Mist to take down her twists for an added boost of shine
  5. She gently separated the twists, then used a pick to create more volume 
Nikki’s routine:
  1. Nikki used a spray bottle to saturate her hair with water, to moisturize and prep it for styling
  2. She applied Coconut & Monoi Deep Moisture Milk Souffle in 3-4 sections, two strand twisting her hair 8 medium-sized twists with a bantu knot at the ends
  3. She sealed the moisture into her hair with Coconut & Monoi Deep Moisture Oil Treatment, a little goes a long way
  4. Set the hair overnight
  5. Nikki used Coconut & Monoi Intense Shine Oil Mist to gently unravel her twists for an added boost of shine
  6. Then she fluffed out her hair and used a wide tooth comb at the roots to give her hair a lift
[prodmod] Watch the Video

This article is sponsored by Design Essentials

How to Turn Your Waves into Curls – Without a Curling Wand

If you have wavy hair then it can sometimes feel frustrating when you wake up and your waves have poof! Disappeared. We know the feeling. Or when you apply just a little bit too much curl cream and your luscious waves go totally limp. Or maybe you’ve been looking a little too longingly at curly girls on Instagram – though we never recommend you covet thy neighbor’s curls. Perhaps you just want to change up your look and play up your curls for the day! This tutorial shows you how to turn your waves into bouncy curls with a few tips and tools.

How to Turn Curls into Waves

  1. Apply a curl enhancing spray to bring out the natural waves. You can do this to dry hair to refresh it mid-week, or on freshly washed hair.
  2. Ever notice your hair how defined your waves are when they’re wet? Keep that definition by applying a curl defining foam through the ends. 
  3. Flip your head upside down and dry it with a diffuser, while scrunching with your fingers. This will give you volume as well as bring out the curls. 
[prodmod]

Watch the Video

NaturallyCurly got a preview earlier this month of Living Proof Curl, a new line that includes Curl Conditioning Wash, Curl Detangling Rinse, Curl Defining Styling Cream and Curl Enhancing Styling MousseThe four products are designed to work with all texture types – from wavy to coily.

Living Proof formulated them with “Curl Memory technology,”  an emollient and polymer blend and time-release conditioners designed to repel humidity.


This article is sponsored by Living Proof Curl.

Your Favorite Stories of 2014

1. Nicole Kidman Embraces Curls for Her Daughter

“The Oscar-winning actress has naturally curly ringlets, but in past years has not appreciated nor shared them. She use to loathed them but has begun to embrace and rock her ringlets for the sake of her three-year-old daughter, Faith, who shares those same ringlets. You see, her daughter Faith prefers her mother to wear her hair like hers and as simple of a request as that…what mother could resist?”… Read the full story

2. My Daughter’s Skin & Hair are Different From Mine… 

“As I reflected, I fast-forwarded to my later life. I imagined my boys grown with their own families. I imagined thinking back to this time and this decision. I felt the searing sting of regret when I contemplated the hole in my heart where our third child was supposed to be. I had my answer.”…Read the full story

3. 3 Things a Curly Girl Should Never Do

“If you have ever read about curly hair, more than likely you have come across “The CG Method” – which is short for Curly Girl Method. Are you still wondering what it is and what it does? That is what we are here for!”…Read the full story

4. 5 Foods that Keep Hair from Growing

“Previously we discussed foods that can improve your hair health like avocados, nuts, leafy greens, and other foods that are high in nutritional content. But what about foods that will harm your hair’s health?”…Read the full story

5. Top 6 Curl Defining Methods

“Curl definition is one of the first goals a newly natural tries to reach. These techniques cannot create curls, but only define them so if your texture does not curl while in a moisturized state, no product can yield such results.”…Read the full story

6. Nicki Minaj Shows Off Her Natural Hair

“Recently during a photo shoot at an undisclosed location, Nicki Minaj posted some raw, genuine behind-the-scenes pics on her Instagram. Her face was half-beaten with makeup, revealing a beautiful natural glow. But if that wasn’t shocking enough, the star showcased her natural hair, titling one of pictures ‘No perm. No extensions.’ Ah, we love it!”…Read the full story

7. 5 Reasons You Aren’t Gaining Length

“Growing longer hair should be pretty simple for every woman- right? I mean, the hair just grows out of our heads. It’s not like we have to look at our scalps on a daily basis and say “Yo follicle! Handle your business!” So if you’re having trouble gaining length, you may want to look a little closer at your hair care regimen. Maybe there are specific things that you are doing to cause damage and counteract your hair’s growth. Here are 4 reasons you may not be gaining length”…Read the full story

8. 4 Reasons Castor Oil is Basically Magic 

“Castor oil is a vegetable oil that is obtained by pressing the castor plant seed. It is filled with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, which is great for your hair….” Read the full story

9. My Hair Looks So Good When It’s Wet… Here’s How to Make That Last

“No more frizzy roots, no more randomly stringy ramen noodle curls. I even found that while letting my curls air dry, I didn’t have to pin them back like I normally would to create that elongation in the front (thanks to the fact that it shrinks considerably more than the back half of my hair”>. For all the ladies like me with multiple textures, this is a total game changer.”…Read the full story

10. The Coconut Oil Bleaching Method

“Applied topically or ingested, there are literally dozens of different benefits coconut oil provides. I have been sleeping with coconut oil in my hair as a pre poo treatment twice a week for over two years now and it has left my hair soft, shiny and more manageable.”… Read the full story

We Found Your Edgy New Year’s Eve Updo (and It’s Super Easy)

Looking for an edgy take on a classic updo for the holidays? Luckily, getting your hair to mirror Olivia Munn’s for the day may not be as out of reach as it may sound.

Olivia’s messy bun was created from a French braid. The braid runs down the left side of her hairline and added a stunning, structural outline that framed her face well. Her naturally wavy, thick mane certainly helped with the texture of the updo.

Recreate the look

  • Start with a small section of hair, braid it along your hairline, and secure with a small elastic.
  • Add texture to the rest of your falling hair with a texturizing spray, mousse, or curling wand.
  • Using the remaining hair, pull back into a low messy bun (no precision needed”> and secure. Use a pomade on flyaways for a sleeker look.
  • Tuck the braid into the bun as you secure it.

Bedazzle it

Modify this hairstyle for the holiday season by adding some jeweled pins to your hair, a metal headband, or a satin ribbon into the braid.

Who this style works for

this messy French braid bun works well for medium to longer length wavy or curly hair. Don’t forget to ask your stylist for their input as well. Refer him or her to this article for guidance on how you want your hair styled for the holidays.

Embracing the messy bun and a French braid may just be another great way to help celebrate a sparkling holiday season!

This Protein Treatment Hardens On Your Hair… But Don’t Be Scared

You know when your curls are in a rut? Your old faithful products aren’t doing the trick and the curls just are not popping like they used to? In times like this, you might want to consider a protein treatment.

If you color treat your hair or use heat styling tools then all the more reason to work a protein treatment into your regimen.

Depending on your hair needs, there are different types of protein treatments that perform different functions. If your hair is fairly healthy then you can treat your curls to a light treatment or protein pack once a month. For moderately damaged hair, choose a deep penetrating treatment twice a month. And if your hair needs some serious TLC then opt for a reconstructor, like the ApHogee Two-Step Protein Treatment.

How can you tell if you need a reconstructor?

Your hair could use a reconstructor if it:

  • Is over-bleached.
  • Will not hold color. (use PRIOR to color application”>
  • Breaks when combed or brushed.
  • Is mushy when wet and brittle after drying.
If any of this sounds like you (especially that “mushy when wet” feeling”> it can be very worrisome, but the good news is a reconstructing treatment can do wonders to reverse the state of your curls. The ApHogee Two-Step Protein Treatment can restore seriously damaged hair, but it also means that you need to take serious care when using this product. It is simple enough to do at home, but if you’re not the DIY type then you can also get this treatment done at a salon. To do this treatment at home be sure you carefully follow each step of these directions:

Directions

Shake well before use! Keep out of eyes. If product gets into the eyes, rinse thoroughly with clean water. (The pH of ApHogee Two-Step Protein Treatment is about that of lemon juice and it will cause similar eye irritation”>.

    1. Gently cleanse hair with ApHogee Shampoo for Damaged Hair. Rinse thoroughly and towel blot dry.
    2. Apply enough ApHogee Two-Step Protein Treatment to thoroughly saturate hair and comb blend for even distribution.
    3. Leave hair uncovered, DO NOT use a plastic cap. Either sit under medium heat hooded dryer. (Alternatively, a hand dryer may be used, but hair should not be agitated while drying.”>
    4. Re-wet and gently rinse thoroughly with warm water. Repeat
    5. Apply ApHogee Balancing Moisturizer to hair and scalp. Leave in for 2 mins., then rinse thoroughly. Style as usual.
When ApHogee Two-Step Protein Treatment is dried into the hair, the hair becomes extremely hard. DO NOT comb or brush hair while ApHogee Two-Step ProteinTreatment is dried and in the hair. The directions may sound unlike any you’ve seen before, but this is because this product acts unlike any treatment you’ve used before.
Feeling apprehensive? Kami did too! Watch her review to see how her experience with the Aphogee Two-Step Protein Treatment went on her Type 4 hair.

Watch the Video

Have you tried this protein treatment? What did you think?

[prodmod]

This post is sponsored by Aphogee.

8 Ways to Use Jamaican Black Castor Oil

You’ve been seeing Jamaican Black Castor Oil praised everywhere so you ran out and bought yourself a bottle of the thick, dark magic potion. Now what? What exactly can you do with this oil and why is it so much darker than any other oil you’ve ever tried? In this infographic we show you how to use JBCO to thicken your eyebrows, fade your scars, restore your edges, minimize acne redness, revitalize your scalp, minimize crows feet, decrease joint inflammation and soften your hair. Talk about multi-purpose!

And this is only a handful of the ways you can use JBCO, if your favorite way to use it didn’t make the list, let us know in the comments.